Highland Park Dark Origins

The sherry is prominant and dominant on nosing. Give it time to open and the aromas of light brown sugar, some dark fruits, dates or figs, and a pinch of brine waft around. A touch of tobacco is first to arrive and opens to almonds and/or walnuts and a touch of oak. They all gradually fade and leave the mouth slightly oaken with a touch of grapefruit and white pepper spice. Add a small amount of water and the dram is rounder and sweeter and strengthens the grapefruit on the finish. Preferable with water. This is a slightly more concentrated and tighter version of HP12 where the flavors are slightly amped-up. Makes a wonderful sipper that is best enjoyed when there is time and the bustle of everyday can be pushed aside for a little bit. Many thanks Pranay for the generous sample. I was waiting for that moment to sit back to concentrate and enjoy this dram. Much enjoyed. [Dried glass: Brown sugar and vanilla][90/100][9/2/16]

I finally got around to opening this bottle. If you've tried the HP 12 and liked it, this is by far better. The nose screams Sherry through and through. It has the aroma of traditional Sherry based Highlander like a Macallan, but then quickly lets you know on the palette that it's really an islander, and undeniably a HP. Tabacco, almonds, grapefruit, vanilla. A bit salty, but not like a Talisker. Finish is quick and hot---young definately, but who cares if it's a NAS and still good. Question is: is it worth close to $90? Not sure...I think so, yes.